Anthony Merante, the Republican candidate for New York State Senate, District 35 , is calling for stronger local authority to regulate public marijuana consumption, citing growing concerns from residents about quality of life, public safety, and enforcement.
“When New York legalized recreational marijuana, most residents accepted that adults should be free to make their own choices,” said Merante. “What they did not expect was the growing impact public marijuana smoking would have on neighborhoods, parks, business districts, and community gathering places.”
Merante recently encountered a young man smoking marijuana in the lobby of his office building who insisted he had the right to do so because marijuana is legal.
“That experience highlighted a growing problem,” Merante said. “Legalization should not mean a free pass to ignore common-sense rules or basic courtesy.”
Residents throughout Westchester County continue to raise concerns about marijuana smoking near parks, playgrounds, train stations, apartment buildings, and commercial districts.
Merante emphasized that his position is not about reversing legalization.
“The question is not whether marijuana should be legal. The question is whether local communities should have the authority to establish reasonable rules that protect quality of life while respecting individual freedoms,” he said.
Merante is advocating for legislation that would give municipalities broader authority to regulate public marijuana consumption and impose meaningful fines for violations.
“Rules without enforcement are merely suggestions,” Merante said. “Local governments should have the tools they need to protect their communities and hold violators accountable.”
“The goal is not prohibition. The goal is balance,” Merante concluded. “Adults who choose to use marijuana legally should be able to do so. Families should also be able to enjoy public spaces without being exposed to marijuana smoke. As State Senator, I will support legislation that strengthens local control and keeps decisions about our neighborhoods in the hands of local communities, not Albany.”
About Anthony J. Merante
Anthony is currently running as the Republican candidate for New York State Senate in the 35th District. He is committed to standing up for taxpayers, seniors, homeowners, renters, and working families who want a government that serves the people—not political insiders.
Anthony J. Merante is a Certified Public Accountant, a local businessman and former Yonkers City Councilmember. A lifelong advocate for taxpayers and local communities, he served as president of the Sprain Lake Knolls Civic Association before being elected to the Yonkers City Council in 2017, where he served two terms representing the 6th District.
During his eight years on the Council, Merante earned a reputation as an independent voice who opposed tax increases and fought to protect neighborhoods from overdevelopment. He and his wife, Yolanda, have two children and deep roots in the Yonkers community.
Learn more www. https://meranteforsenate.com
